Graphisoft BIMx

Overview

Graphisoft BIMx brings building layouts, 3D models and BIM data together in a .bimx file. It is best suited to architects, engineers, construction teams and clients who need to navigate a building model alongside its documentation. Its free viewer covers useful review and presentation work, but app access requires a Graphisoft ID and private Hyper-model sharing is restricted to eligible Graphisoft users.

Key features

Game-like 3D navigation and links from Hyper-models to project documentation let users move between a building view and related drawings. That pairing is more useful for project review than a standalone geometry viewer, particularly when clients or field teams need context. BIMx also displays element data such as fire ratings and manufacturer-specific properties, helping reviewers inspect model information without replacing the authoring workflow.

BIMx Issues supports markup on both 2D and 3D views, and its issues are BCF compliant. Together with measurement tools, that makes it a practical option for recording coordination feedback against the model. Presenter and Gallery support live presentations and client exploration at their own pace. The Web Viewer can be embedded on a website, broadening access for audiences who do not need a desktop app.

Models can be shared by web link through BIMx Model Transfer. Private Hyper-model sharing, however, is for Graphisoft Subscribers, SSA and Forward users, so teams outside those groups may have to use a less controlled sharing route. Graphisoft also says facility managers and owners can connect facilities-management databases with the BIM model for maintenance, extending its usefulness beyond project delivery.

Pricing

BIMx costs nothing. The free plan includes the app and browser viewer, with no free-trial period to manage. App users need a registered Graphisoft ID to open projects; without signing in, they can access sample content and one additional custom model. Private Hyper-model sharing is reserved for Graphisoft Subscribers, SSA and Forward users, making the free plan strongest for viewing, presentations and link-based sharing rather than restricted distribution.

After sign-in, authentication lasts up to one year with occasional online access, or up to seven days while offline. That supports intermittent connectivity, but users should not assume a permanently offline app workflow.

Platforms

BIMx supports web, Windows, macOS, iOS and Android, and uses the .bimx format. Graphisoft lists Windows 11 and macOS 26 or macOS 10.15 for BIMx Desktop, with iOS 15 and Android 11 as minimum mobile requirements. These OS requirements are worth checking before adopting it across a mixed-device project team.

Who it's for

BIMx is a strong fit for project participants who need a shared route from 3D context to drawings, element data and marked-up feedback, as well as architects presenting designs to clients. It is less suitable when viewers cannot register Graphisoft IDs, or when a team needs private Hyper-model sharing but lacks an eligible Graphisoft subscription or license status.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Links between 3D Hyper-models and project documentation keep model review connected to drawings.
• Pro: BCF-compliant Issues, 2D and 3D markup, and measurement tools support contextual coordination feedback.
• Pro: Browser viewing, embeddable Web Viewer and presentation features give teams several ways to show a model.
• Con: Opening projects in the apps requires a Graphisoft ID; unsigned users are limited to samples and one custom model.
• Con: Private Hyper-model sharing is limited to Graphisoft Subscribers, SSA and Forward users.
• Con: Offline authentication is limited to seven days, so extended disconnected use is not assured.

Alternatives

For broader 3D model sharing across platforms including Linux, consider Sketchfab; its free Basic plan caps each model at 50MB, while Pro costs $15 a month billed yearly.

If browser viewing is the priority, BIMx Web Viewer is free; BIMx Pro features on Model Transfer require membership in an eligible company and Graphisoft ID sign-in.

Marmoset Viewer is another viewer option, included with Toolbag versions 2.07 and newer.

Choose Dalux if its free punch-list tool, unlimited tasks and allowance of up to three active projects or buildings better match the project workflow.

Nanome is another option to consider.

For a hosted viewer with a small free allowance, OmniView 3D Starter supports three models and 100 MB of storage, but files are auto-deleted after three days and carry a watermark.

If you need a no-license-fee IFC viewer for desktop systems, consider Open IFC Viewer.

For a free desktop-only BIMx option, BIMx Desktop Viewer supports Windows and macOS.

Browse the 3D Model Viewer Software list or the Architecture Software list to compare more options.

Verdict

Choose Graphisoft BIMx if your team needs a free, cross-platform way to connect building models, documentation and review feedback, or to present projects to clients. Its clearest strengths are contextual navigation and coordination tools; look elsewhere if app viewers cannot be asked to sign in or private sharing must work without eligible Graphisoft status.